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Credit card fraud and identity theft are on the rise, so it is more important than ever to keep your credit cards safe from thieving hands. Here are four top tips you can put into play to make sure your credit cards aren't stolen.

credit card security

1. Be careful when giving out your credit card information

Credit card information should only be entered into the safest and most trusted sources. Never give credit card information upon request unless you know who you are dealing with. Scammers will often contact people at random and try to acquire credit card information on the phone or via email. Do not give anything away unless you can verify where they are contacting you from. If you are ever unsure, request the name of the company and call their listed phone number.

credit card bank statement

2. Review your spendings

Some scammers will set up your credit card to automatically draw money out on a regular basis. Look through your credit card statements and online banking regularly to ensure you can verify every purchase. If there is ever something you cannot confirm, call your bank immediately. Many people have fallen victim to this crime, and will not notice for months, or even years.

bank cancel credit card

3. Cancel or pause stolen cards immediately

If you can't find your credit card, put a hold on it straight away, even if you are pretty sure you just dropped it somewhere. Thieves move quickly, as they know most people will cancel their card as soon as they notice it is gone. Some banks will allow you to 'pause' your card until you can confirm whether or not it has been stolen. if you locate it later, you will be able to activate it again, and continue to use it as normal.

credit card scam website

4. Beware the internet scam

Internet scams have been around since the birth of the internet, and they haven't shown any signs of letting up. Email scammers are still rampant, and many, many people will still fall victim to these scams. If you receive an email claiming you have won a competition you didn't enter, a warning from your bank, or contact from a 'long lost relative', delete it immediately. Do not click the links or follow any instructions that are in the email. Similarly, never use your credit card to make any online purchases on sites you are not certain are legitimate.

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